The Hump Day Humor-Gram, May 9, 2007 Issue Number 217

A Wisconsin sheriff recently wrote himself a $160.80 “unsafe
lane change” ticket. He was quoted as saying, “How can I hold
my officers accountable if I don’t hold myself accountable?”
Darn good question. Obviously the sheriff realizes the
power of walking the talk, of actions speaking louder than
words, when it comes to communicating important workplace
values. And often the most effective way to communicate how
serious your are about your workplace values is to do
something totally outlandish (like write yourself a ticket!).

Here’s what, sadly, too often happens after my presentations.
A senior mucky muck tells all the employees that they value
creativity, innovation, and yes, even fun in the workplace.
I do my talk. People applaud. People think, “Hmmm, maybe
they’re serious about this, I mean they did SAY they wanted us
to take risks and try something different.” So they take a risk.
They try something different. Something fun. Something out of the
ordinary. And . . .the employees get their knuckles wrapped.
Lesson is duly noted, and stored away for future reference.
Actions are everything! Words reflect intent. If you want to
get serious about your workplace values, stop talking about
them, and start DOING them, in a big, memorable, even
outlandish way that will show your customers and employees
that your really are walking the talk.
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2. Mike’s Fun at Work Tip

Compile an office cookbook of everyone’s favorite recipes.
You can give the book away to everyone as a fun reward,
or sell it to raise money for your social committee or a charity.
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3. Quote of the Week

“The kind of humor I like makes me laugh hard for five seconds,
and think hard for five minutes.” William Davis
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4. It’s a Wacky, Wacky, World

The next time you’re having a bad day, just remind yourself
that it could always be worse. In fact, the Daily Telegraph
of London searched for the “world’s worst job” and found their
number one pick: “The South American scissors dancer.”
These traditional Peruvian dancers are required to pierce various
parts of their bodies with nails or wire, walk on fire and eat
glass (all things I’ve thought of doing to myself during a long
meeting in my days with the government!). Keep laughing!
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Copyright Michael Kerr, 2007. mike@mikekerr.com www.mikekerr.com